Romney blaming the victims, mistakes government for a business

Mr. Romney says that 47 percent of Americans don't pay income tax, lack the initiative to better themselves, and are eager to rely on government largess; his finger of blame is pointed in the wrong direction.

He may not understand that many do not pay income tax because their incomes are insufficient even to appear on the tax schedules, though they work many jobs. They may be diligent folks who increased their job productivity but were denied increase in their wages. Republican politicians never met a minimum wage law they liked and would leave the pay issue to the tender mercies of the employer. Unions, which have in the past worked to protect the worker, are being defanged by Republican office holders all over the country.

Some in the 47 percent cannot advance through education. Thank Republicans for wanting to privatize student loans, for higher tuition and for opposing Pell grants. Some elderly entered the 47 percent when their pension funds were raided by companies like Bain Capital. The plight of the elderly will deteriorate if Republicans succeed in reducing Social Security and Medicare benefits. Perhaps a serious illness has drained a family's resources. The Republican solution? Repeal the Affordable Health Care Act.

Mr. Romney has fallen into the ancient ploy of blaming the victim. He calls himself a businessman: The aim of business is not to create jobs, but to make money. Our government is not a business; it is the combined will of its citizens. If Mr. Romney cannot understand that, I suggest he adjust his life goals.

Patricia Blackis, LaPorte

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Romney blaming the victims, mistakes government for a business

Mr. Romney says that 47 percent of Americans don't pay income tax, lack the initiative to better themselves, and are eager to rely on government largess; his finger of blame is pointed in the wrong